AI & Cybersecurity

Connecting real business challenges with innovative AI and cybersecurity solutions from Southeast Europe.

Date: 16 – 17 September 2026

Location: Science and Technology Park Niš, Serbia
Held within: 10th Forum of Advanced Technologies

South East European Innovators Challenge 2026 is a regional open innovation initiative designed to connect startups, research teams, technology companies, SMEs, industry partners, investors and innovation ecosystem stakeholders around practical technology challenges, pilot projects and business collaboration opportunities.

Focus Areas

Artificial Intelligence

Smart Manufacturing | Energy & Green Tech | Smart Cities & Public Sector | Trusted AI & AI Governance | HealthTech AI AI for

Cybersecurity

AI for Cyber Defense | Zero Trust & Digital Identity | Cyber Resilience | OT / Industrial Cyber Security | Secure AI & AI Governance

WHO SHOULD JOIN?

The Challenge is open to startups, innovation teams, SMEs, research teams and technology companies developing solutions at TRL 2–5 and CRL 2–5, including concepts, prototypes, validated technologies and early-stage market-ready solutions.

It also brings together challenge owners, industry partners, science and technology parks, investors, mentors, experts and innovation support organizations from across Southeast Europe.

AWARDS & SUPPORT

AWARDS

5 WINNING TEAMS will receive membership and tailored support within HUB201 programs, supporting further acceleration and market development.

5 WINNING TEAMS will be supported to participate in Web Summit Lisbon, gaining international exposure, networking opportunities and access to global innovation ecosystems.

Support

Opportunities for pilot projects and follow-up discussions with challenge owners;
Expert mentoring in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, business development, investment readiness, and legal aspects of innovation;
Digital maturity assessment and advisory support through the EDIH S4AI HUB network;
Regional visibility through Alliance communication channels and partner networks;
Access to organized B2B matchmaking meetings with companies, investors, and innovation stakeholders;
Opportunities to present solutions at the 10th Forum of Advanced Technologies (FNT);
Soft-landing support and networking opportunities within science and technology parks and innovation centers across the region.